Graywood is under threat from development.This part of East Hoathly has been wooded continuously since at least 1600 AD (when the first Queen Elizabeth was on the throne!).

Many trees have already been cut down, and a roadway has already been constructed, to accommodate a campsite. We are at risk of losing a wealth of wildlife, flora and fauna if we do not act.

Please help us to protect it from this threat by signing this petition.

Thank You!

(If you would like further information, please contact Barbara Sutherland on barbara@merrycottage.co.uk)

PETITION

Proposed Development threat to Graywood Ancient Woodland.

[Planning Application WD/2013/1642/F]

We, the undersigned, call upon Wealden District Council Planning Committee to reject planning application WD/2013/1642/F, for an eco-campsite in the ancient woodland of Graywood, East Hoathly, BN8 6QP.

Natural England’s Standing Advice for Local Planning Authorities clearly states that the LPA has a vital role in protecting ancient woodland by refusing development which would result in the loss or deterioration of irreplaceable habitats, including ancient woodland.We believe that granting of this planning application would result in permanent, irreplaceable loss and/or deterioration of this ancient woodland - and that any need for, or benefits of, the proposed development in this location would NOT outweigh the loss.

The High Weald AONB Report on eco-camping[1] states:

“In view of the fact that even light use can significantly degrade vegetation, that recovery from disturbance may take decades, that the vegetation of British temperate woodland is neither particularly resistant or resilient, and that ancient woodland is … a nationally irreplaceable resource of considerable value … eco-camping shouldnot be permitted in ancient woodland on any scale”.

[1] Although the report was commissioned for the High Weald AONB Unit, the Joint Directors of the Unit are on record as saying that “the report's findings are applicable toany ancient woodland and not just those within the High Weald AONB”

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